Many pre-retirees are uncertain about their choices when it comes to enrolling in Medicare. There are 2 main ways to get your coverage - you can choose the traditional fee-for-service Medicare, known as Original Medicare, or a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare Advantage plans are similar to an HMO, which stands for Health Maintenance Organization or a PPO, which stands for Preferred Provider Organization.

Original Medicare consists of Part A - Hospital Insurance for in-hospital care, and Part B Medical Insurance for outpatient services like doctor visits and lab tests.

Medicare Advantage, known as Part C, is a managed care option that rolls all the different parts of Medicare into one.

And everyone on Medicare is eligible for prescription drug coverage either from a Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan offering drug coverage.

There are many considerations that can factor into the Medicare planning process. Let us help you with your important Medicare decisions. Call us today.

Most Americans who turn 65 are eligible for Medicare, a federal program that covers many health expenses for seniors. But the program is complicated. Here are 5 important facts you need to know:

First - Medicare is not free. Of the 4 parts, Part A - Hospital Insurance - is the only one that normally has no premium. Parts B, C and D have premiums that vary.

Second - Enrollment is not automatic - you have to sign up for Medicare benefits. The exception is for those already receiving Social Security benefits. If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you will automatically receive Medicare Parts A and B.

Third - Late enrollment can mean expensive, and permanent, premium penalties. You have 7 months, starting 3 months before your 65th birthday month, to sign up penalty-free.

Fourth - Medicare covers a lot, but not everything. Services like long-term care, dental and vision care are not covered. People often purchase additional private coverage for these types of services.

And fifth, if you’re in a higher tax bracket, you’ll pay more. High-income seniors pay surcharges on premiums for both Parts B and D.

Let us help you with your important Medicare decisions. Call to speak to a licensed insurance agent.